30 May Calypso Collapse a reminder to only Book with ATAS-Accredited Businesses May 30, 2024 By Amanda Rixon Media Release 0 This advisory comes in the wake of the collapse of tour operator Calypso Destinations, which has reportedly left Sydney parents, coaches, and junior cricket players out of pocket, reportedly to the tune of $1 million. Tour operator Calypso Destinations was not ATAS accredited. ABOUT ATAS: ATAS, the travel sector’s prestigious accreditation program, sets the highest industry benchmarks and distinguishes exemplary travel businesses. ATAS accreditation is contingent upon stringent criteria, including an in-depth analysis of business models, compliance with Australian Consumer Law, indemnity insurance verification, workforce qualification standards, annual financial reviews, daily director checks, and a robust consumer complaints program. Consumers are encouraged to always look for the ATAS seal when booking travel to ensure they are dealing with a reputable and reliable provider for their travel. QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG: “The unfortunate situation with Calypso Destinations serves as a reminder of why it’s crucial to look for the ATAS seal when booking travel. ATAS accreditation means that the business has undergone rigorous financial reviews and meets strict industry criteria designed to safeguard your travel plans.” “Always choose an ATAS-accredited business to protect your travel investment and enjoy peace of mind.” Related Articles ATIA Urges Travellers to Book Only with Accredited Agents Following Travel World Sydney Case Sydney, 5 November 2025: The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is reminding consumers to always book through ATIA Accredited travel businesses, following the guilty plea of Travel World Sydney Director Zahra Rachid, who has admitted to eight counts of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception involving more than $77,000. RBA bans surcharging with travel businesses to wear at least 1% cost increase from 1 October The Reserve Bank of Australia has today banned surcharging on debit and credit cards, effective 1 October 2026, in a decision the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says will force up the cost of travel for every Australian and place travel businesses under unacceptable financial pressure. Mint Payments collaborates with ATIA on record-breaking webinar to demystify RBA surcharge ban for travel businesses Thursday 23 April 2026: More than 700 travel professionals joined an Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) webinar on surcharging changes yesterday afternoon - the largest turnout in ATIA’s history, reflecting the scale of industry concern. Traveldream.com.au issues highlight importance of choosing only ATIA-accredited travel businesses The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is aware of reports of the collapse of Traveldream.com.au. Claiming tax deductions for travel businesses: webinar reminder for ATAS members One of the many benefits of ATAS accreditation is ongoing education for participating travel professionals, and next Tuesday’s webinar will welcome a guest presenter from the ATO to explain claiming tax deductions for small businesses. ATIA Calls for Stronger Support for Travel Businesses in Federal Election With Australia’s airfares surging — up 13% nationally and as much as 95% on key routes — travellers are paying the price for a market dominated by just two airline groups controlling 98% of domestic passengers. Showing 0 Comment Comments are closed.